Hyundai Launches IONIQ EV Brand and Concept Cars in China

BEIJING, China — Hyundai Motor Company launched its dedicated all-electric IONIQ brand in the Chinese market on April 9, unveiling two concept vehicles, the VENUS sedan and EARTH SUV, ahead of Auto China 2026.

The introduction of the IONIQ lineup marks a strategic shift for Hyundai in China’s new energy vehicle market.

The automaker announced it will adopt a localized naming convention for future IONIQ models sold in China, using planetary names.

As part of its China-specific strategy, Hyundai plans to integrate localized technologies into its product lineup.

Those include autonomous driving systems developed with regional partners and extended-range electric vehicles, which the company said are intended to address local consumer demand.

The two concept vehicles presented at the launch feature a single-curve silhouette design.

The VENUS Concept is a sedan with a frame-structured roof and a transparent spoiler. Its exterior is finished in a color the company calls Radiant Gold.

The interior uses suede materials and chrome-gold seatback covers.

The EARTH Concept is a family-oriented SUV with exterior skid plates and exposed bolt accents, finished in Aurora Shield.

Its interior features seats constructed from air modules, which the manufacturer calls air-hug seats.

Hyundai Motor plans to disclose further details on its Chinese market strategy and the IONIQ lineup at Auto China 2026, scheduled for April 24 at the China International Exhibition Center in Beijing.